No new flu-related deaths reported

The H1N1 outbreak continues to fade, and the strain may have displaced seasonal flu, which still hasn't arrived.

2 flu deaths confirmed, but cases remain few

State health officials reported Wednesday that the number of flu cases in Minnesota remains low, although one school has reported an outbreak in recent days and two new deaths have been confirmed.

2 more deaths from H1N1 are reported in Minnesota

Health officials still urging public to get vaccinated.

H1N1 shots plentiful and advised

The outbreak appears to be subsiding, but it could return, so Minnesota officials are urging people to be vaccinated.

Flu season not over, but lessons emerging

People fill out paperwork while in line at the Anoka County clinic

The pandemic of 2009 wasn't as bad as health officials feared, but it hit the young harder and may be only in a lull.

H1N1 flu outbreak is over, but 3rd wave could strike

The fall spike in H1N1 illnesses has dropped off dramatically in the state, but the vaccine is still recommended.

Kids got H1N1? 8-1 odds you get it, too

But if your sibling has it and you're just a kid, your odds just doubled, according to the first study of in-home infection rates.

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Swine flu basics

Symptoms

The symptoms of H1N1 swine flu are similar to those of seasonal flu:

fever (above 100°F)
cough
sore throat
stuffy nose
diarrhea and vomiting, in some cases

How does it spread?

Coughing or sneezing
Touching something with flu virus on it, and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Prevention

Cover your nose and mouth every time you cough or sneeze.
If you don't have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve.
Wash your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick, if possible.
To help stay healthy, eat nutritious foods, get enough sleep and exercise.

What should I do if I get sick?

Call your health care provider.
Stay home and avoid contact with other people to keep from spreading your illness.

For more information:

Contact the Minnesota Department of Health at 1-877-676-5414 or online at www.health.state.mn.us

Regular flu vaccine is available now, and people who need it most include:

Adults 50 and older.
All children age 6 months to 18 years.
Pregnant women.
People of any age with chronic health problems like asthma, heart disease or a weakened immune system.
Health workers.
Caregivers to the high-risk, including babies younger than 6 months.

Don't like shots? There's a nasal spray version of the vaccine, called FluMist, available for people ages 2 to 49.

The first shipments of H1N1 flu vaccine for the general public have arrived in Minnesota, but:

Supplies are limited.
The state Health Department is distributing the vaccine to hospitals and clinics that serve the most vulnerable populations, such as children with chronic health conditions and pregnant women.
Providers with vaccine supplies will call their patients.
State officials say that shipments are arriving gradually and many Minnesotans might not get their H1N1 shots until after Thanksgiving.